UChicago SHPE Executive Team

Hi there! I’m María, originally from the sunny desert of Sonora, Mexico. In 2020, I became a Fulbright scholar and began my PhD journey here at the University of Chicago, focusing on polymers for sustainability. When I’m not deep in my studies, you’ll find me learning new languages, capturing moments with my camera, biking around the city, or strumming my ukulele. I’m passionate about personal growth and believe in living intentionally and cultivating virtues that add meaning to life.

Holi! My name is Jireh and I was born and raised in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. In 2016 I started my educational journey to combine my interests in the fundamental sciences and environmental sustainability. At the University of Chicago, I use an array of computational techniques to study and design materials needed for the transition to a more sustainable future. In my free time, I enjoy weightlifting, swimming, singing & dancing, and experiencing new activities with friends!

Hola todxs!

My name is Tamara and I’m a master’s student at the Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice on the Social Administration track. This past May I graduated with my Bachelor of Social Work at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. During my undergrad, I was heavily involved in my SHPE chapter and am very excited to be part of UChicago’s new SHPE chapter 🙂 During my free time I enjoy going on runs, trying new coffee places, reading and cooking/baking!

Hello! My name is Paola (you can call me Pao if you want), and I was born in Georgia . Both my parents are from San Luis Potosí, Mexico. I am in the Erin Adams lab, focusing on experimental and computational work. I enjoy fun little treats (like MangoMango), reading, exercising, and trying new things. My plan for the near future is to beat the Strings Ramen Monster Hell Challenge.

Hi, I’m Cesar. I was born in Yucatan Mexico and grew up in Napa Valley California. I always loved science and now I get to do it for money — YAY ME. In collaboration with a self-driving lab team, I leverage computer simulations to discover high-performance electrical, ionic, and heat conducting polymers. I love my cats Brownie and Pringles. I like chaos, ice cream sandwiches, and weightlifting. I want to own a self-sustaining or self-driving farm in the future.

Hola! I’m Jonathan, originally from Cancún, Mexico. I’m currently working on my PhD at the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering at the University of Chicago, guided by Prof. Juan de Pablo. My research dives into active liquid crystals—those fascinating materials that sit between solids and liquids and are super common in biology.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the National Autonomous University of Mexico and later completed my master’s in chemical biology at the University of Geneva. When I’m not immersed in research, you’ll find me enjoying art films, volunteering, dancing, or hanging out with friends.

Hola! I’m Bryant, born and raised in Oklahoma City, and proud to come from a family with roots in Querétaro and Durango, Mexico. I pursued my passion for science by studying bioengineering at Rice University, and I’m now working toward my PhD at the University of Chicago. In the Esser-Kahn lab, I’m focused on pioneering new ways to improve vaccines through the discovery of novel adjuvants, aiming to contribute to the future of global health. Outside the lab, I’m all about staying active—whether it’s lifting weights, playing soccer, hiking, or hitting the slopes on a snowboard. I also find joy in reading, traveling to new places, and sharing good times with friends and family.